The area north of Sheffield's city centre is mostly famous for its industrial heritage, but there is a lot more to the area than factories and steel. The area has been occupied since prehistory, and grew significantly as a result of the industrial boom. Today, it is home to a diverse number of people and communities and is witnessing a changing landscape, especially with the rapid re-development of Kelham Island over the past decades.

The Roots and Futures project aims to explore the heritage of Netherthorpe, Upperthorpe, Kelham Island and Neepsend and understand what it means to the communities living there. This exhibition draws together material created by the community and curated by the project team based upon their suggestions and interests.

Thanks to community contributions to the Roots and Futures project over the past two years, you can now explore layers of meaning beyond the famous industrial heritage of the area. Throughout this exhibition, you will find that heritage can take different forms, expressed through people, stories, places, artwork, and things.

This digital exhibition can be explored by following a QR code walking trail through Kelham Island Museum where it is embedded with the Museum’s physical exhibits.

Alternatively, the digital exhibition can be viewed alone - feel free to look at the themes that attract your attention or listen to the stories while walking around the area.